At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead test engineering activities, ensuring high-quality products through comprehensive test plans.
- Company: Join the Government Digital Service, shaping a modern digital government for the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, remote work options, and the chance to impact millions.
- Other info: Work with top digital professionals and contribute to innovative public sector solutions.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team tackling national digital challenges with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in software testing, CI/CD integration, and Agile methodologies required.
The predicted salary is between 42793 - 50220 £ per year.
Full-time (Permanent) £46,725 - £50,220 (London) / £42,893 - £45,653 (National) plus additional allowance
Published on 20 August 2025
Location
Bristol, London, Manchester
About the job
Job summary
The Government Digital Service (GDS) is the digital centre of government. We are responsible for setting, leading and delivering the vision for a modern digital government.
Our priorities are to drive a modern digital government by:
- joining up public sector services
- harnessing the power of AI for the public good
- strengthening and extending our digital and data public infrastructure
- elevating leadership and investing in talent
- funding for outcomes and procuring for growth and innovation
- committing to transparency and driving accountability
We are home to the Incubator for Artificial Intelligence (I.AI), the world-leading GOV.UK, and at the forefront of coordinating the UK’s geospatial strategy and activity. We lead the Government Digital and Data function and champion the work of digital teams across government.
We’re part of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and employ more than 1,000 people across the UK, with hubs in Manchester, London, and Bristol.
The Government Digital Service offers a platform where talent translates into impact. From your first day, you’ll be working with some of the world’s most highly-skilled digital professionals, contributing their knowledge to make a difference on a national scale.
Join us for rewarding work that impacts millions of people across the UK. You will tackle some of the nation’s highest-priority digital challenges, helping to improve access to essential services.
Role Overview
We are seeking highly skilled Test Engineers to join our dynamic product teams. In this role, you will lead test engineering activities at the product level, ensuring our products meet high standards of quality. You will work closely with developers, product managers, architects, and stakeholders to design and execute comprehensive test plans covering all product lifecycle aspects. Additionally, you will support the seamless integration and delivery of testing across the program, identifying opportunities for process improvement and innovation. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a multidisciplinary team and play a key role in testing excellence.
Technology Stack
Our technology stack includes AWS serverless compute and storage, with backend services in TypeScript/Node.js and JVM technologies. Web applications also utilize TypeScript.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and maintain test automation frameworks and scripts using industry-standard tools
- Collaborate with stakeholders to foster a culture of quality
- Design and execute comprehensive test plans and cases, covering functional, regression, and integration testing
- Integrate automated tests into the CI/CD pipeline and participate in early development stages
- Analyze test results to identify trends, risks, and patterns for quality improvements
- Participate in daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and refinement sessions to identify risks, gaps, and test dependencies
Person Specification
We are looking for candidates who:
- Have extensive experience in software testing across the full SDLC, including test strategy, automation, defect management, and reporting
- Are proficient in integrating tests into CI/CD pipelines
- Possess knowledge of non-functional testing, including performance and accessibility testing
- Can identify defect trends, conduct root cause analysis, and drive preventive actions
- Have strong collaboration skills to embed quality practices throughout the SDLC
- Have experience working in Agile environments, participating in sprint planning, stand-ups, and TDD/BDD practices
- Are committed to continuous learning and staying updated with testing tools and methodologies
Test Engineer - GDS - SEO in Manchester employer: Manchester Digital
At Manchester Digital, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel. As a Chief Software Engineering Leader, you will not only lead a talented team but also enjoy flexible working arrangements, competitive pension contributions, and generous annual leave that grows with your tenure, making it an ideal environment for personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Engineer - GDS - SEO in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, such as AWS, TypeScript, and Node.js. Having hands-on experience or projects showcasing your skills in these areas can significantly boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the GDS community online. Follow their social media channels, participate in discussions, and attend relevant webinars or meetups. This will not only help you understand their culture but also show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with CI/CD pipelines and automation frameworks during interviews. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've integrated testing into development processes and the impact it had on project outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your collaboration skills by preparing examples of how you've worked with cross-functional teams in Agile environments. Emphasising your ability to communicate effectively with developers and stakeholders will set you apart.
We think you need these skills to ace Test Engineer - GDS - SEO in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Test Engineer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially around software testing, CI/CD integration, and Agile methodologies.
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in software testing, automation frameworks, and collaboration within Agile teams. Use specific examples that demonstrate your proficiency in the required technologies and practices.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for working with the Government Digital Service. Mention how your skills align with their mission of improving public sector services through technology.
Showcase Continuous Learning:In your application, emphasise your commitment to continuous learning and staying updated with the latest testing tools and methodologies. This aligns well with the role's requirements and shows your proactive approach to professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Digital
✨Understand the Role and Responsibilities
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the key responsibilities of a Test Engineer at GDS. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in areas like test automation and CI/CD integration.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be ready to demonstrate your technical expertise, particularly in the technology stack mentioned, such as AWS, TypeScript, and Node.js. You might be asked to solve a problem or explain your approach to testing, so brush up on relevant tools and frameworks.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Agile Experience
Since the role involves working closely with various stakeholders, highlight your collaboration skills and experience in Agile environments. Share examples of how you've contributed to team success during sprint planning or daily stand-ups.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on instances where you've identified defects or improved testing processes.
